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Government’s NEIP Initiative transforms entrepreneurship landscape in Ghana
The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has lauded the transformative impact of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP) on Ghana’s entrepreneurship landscape.
Speaking at the 3rd Applied Research Conference of Technical Universities in Ghana (ARCTUG 2024) in Sunyani, the President detailed the successes of NEIP and its contributions to reducing youth unemployment and stimulating economic growth.
Launched in 2017, NEIP has been a cornerstone initiative aimed at advancing entrepreneurship and innovation in Ghana. The programme provides critical support to start-ups through funding, training, and mentorship. President Akufo-Addo noted that NEIP has significantly impacted Ghana’s start-up ecosystem, leading to the emergence of numerous innovative businesses across various sectors.
“By offering financial support and business development services, NEIP has enabled 15,000 start-ups to scale up their operations,” President Akufo-Addo stated.
He highlighted that the programme has contributed to the creation of 103,871 jobs as at the end of 2023, fostering economic diversification and empowering the youth.
The President paid tribute to the foundational work of the late John Kumah, the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NEIP, and the former Minister for Business Development, Mohammed Awal Ibrahim, for their roles in establishing the programme. He emphasised that NEIP’s success in producing entrepreneurial talent has not only generated thousands of jobs but also positioned Ghana as a hub for innovation in West Africa.
President Akufo-Addo highlighted the various forms of support provided by NEIP, including funding, training, and mentorship. The programme’s emphasis on equipping young entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and resources has been instrumental in reducing unemployment and fostering a culture of self-reliance and creativity.
The President noted that NEIP’s success is evident in the numerous innovative businesses that have emerged from the programme. These businesses, he said, are driving sustainable economic development and improving the livelihoods of citizens. NEIP has also played a crucial role in positioning Ghana as a hub for innovation in West Africa.
In addition to NEIP, President Akufo-Addo emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship. He noted that the government’s efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation extend beyond NEIP, with substantial investments in education and research. The government has disbursed over GH¢700 million in research and book allowances since 2020, underscoring its commitment to advancing education and research in Ghana.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the government’s focus on STEM education, which is essential for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
He detailed the various initiatives aimed at developing high-quality STEM institutions and programmes, including the construction of the Accra STEM Academy and several STEM Centres and model STEM Senior High schools.
The President concluded by urging all stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives like NEIP and to work collaboratively to advance Ghana’s development through innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Together, we can build a brighter future for our nation, characterised by innovation, inclusivity, and prosperity,” he said.
In his closing remarks, President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude for the broad endorsement of the Ghana Automotive Development Policy by Toyota’s representative and echoed the sentiments of Bono Regional Minister, Justina Owusu Banahene, for the establishment of a Sunyani industrial outlet of Toyota.
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Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation –Pres.Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the misuse of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) for personal financial gain by individuals in leadership positions.
Speaking during a meeting with Chief Executives of specified entities under the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) on Thursday, March 13, the President directly attributed the dire state of SOEs to their leadership, accusing chief executives, management teams, and governing boards of prioritising personal enrichment over organisational efficiency.
He pointed to bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures as factors draining public funds while SOEs continue to rely on government bailouts.
“Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation by appointees. The chief executives, management, and boards of these enterprises are responsible for this situation. Some SOEs have become perennial loss-makers, draining public funds with bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures while relying on government bailouts as if entitled to them. Many of these entities are at their lowest point in the entire history of the Fourth Republic,” he said.
President Mahama further noted that many SOEs have been plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement, leading to consistent financial losses. He cited the 2023 State Ownership Report by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), which highlighted systemic inefficiencies and wasteful expenditures within these entities.
He therefore reaffirmed his commitment to reforming under-performing SOEs and ensuring they serve national interests.
He warned that loss-making SOEs will no longer be tolerated and will either be merged, privatised, or closed.
“I will assess you based on your performance. If you do not align with the pace of the reset agenda, you may be asked to step aside. If that adds to the horror movie, so be it,” he added.
Source: Myjoyonline.com
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Prophet Courage Heavens set to launch ‘Predestination’ book on March 23
Prophet Courage A. Heavens is set to launch the much-awaited book titled ‘Predestination’ on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 5:00PM.
The launch, which is expected to impact lives, will take place at Crossgates Ministries, Flattop, off N1 Highway, opposite Angel Hauz.
The book is aimed at addressing the way people struggle to understand how free will and destiny align.
It is also aimed at providing clarity on God’s sovereignty and one’s place in His divine plan.
The various chapters of the book address various issues through scriptures and personal stories.
Committed to impacting society, part of the proceeds from the book will go into Courage Heavens Education Legacy (CHEL), an educational foundation transforming lives.
CHEL is dedicated to providing financial support and mentorship to brilliant but needy students, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.
Prophet Courage Heavens is a prolific writer and previously authored Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani, a powerful book that encourages unwavering faith in times of trials.
In addition, he has written seven more prophetic and life-changing books that are yet to be published.
He is dedicated to raising the next generation for impactful ministry. As the leader of Crossgates Ministries, he nurtures believers in faith and purpose.
